Best Buddies Philippines (BBP) and Banana Peel Celebrate Fashion, Friendship, and Inclusion

Best Buddies Philippines (BBP) and Banana Peel showcased a special celebration of fashion, friendship and inclusion when it mounted the highly-successful “Slide Together Embrace Inclusion” at Robinsons Magnolia on May 18.

The event generated a huge crowd as it unveiled a unique collection of unisex slides designed by Best Buddies British School Manila (BSM) chapter member, Navine Gabriella Kuo Gatchalian. Gatchalian is a 17-year old talented artist who was inspired by happy beach adventures with her family.

 

These slides are vibrant and eye-catching, a creative addition to anyone’s summer vacation. More importantly, they embody the spirit of inclusion, the core mission of Best Buddies Philippines (BBP) programs. The design was created during a social activity mounted by the BB BSM chapter where students with and without IDD form meaningful relationships.

 

Best Buddies is a worldwide non-profit organization dedicated to establishing a global volunteer movement  to create opportunities for friendships, leadership development, integrated employment, and inclusive living for people with intellectual and development disabilities (IDD).  BBP was established in 2014 and has since then touched the lives of over 30,000 Filipinos of all abilities.

 

“We are thrilled to collaborate with a beloved Filipino brand, Banana Peel.  It gave us the opportunity to highlight the talents of our members and help in empowering individuals with IDD,” says Michelle Aventajado,  BBP’s Executive Director.  

 

"We are delighted to be part of this initiative and I want to express my gratitude to Best Buddies Philippines for partnering with us. This collaboration demonstrates that opportunities can be made accessible to all,” says Paul Ng, President of Banana Peel.

 

The outpour of support from those who attended the event raised awareness about the importance of inclusion and also provided opportunities for growth and self-expression, fostering a more inclusive society where everyone can thrive.  A portion of the proceeds from the event was directed to BBP.

More than footwear, “Slide Together, Embrace Inclusion” was a testament to the power of friendship and a commitment to embracing a world of inclusivity.

 

To purchase, pls see the following links:

 

WEBSITE

https://www.bananapeel.net/index.php?route=product/adsoptions&filter_name=best%20buddies

 

SHOPEE

https://shopee.ph/Best-Buddies-Unisex-Slides-Milk-White-i.21667407.25380419084?sp_atk=b28baf80-cffa-40ed-9461-e780f90b3dcd&xptdk=b28baf80-cffa-40ed-9461-e780f90b3dcd

 

TIKTOK

https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSYrDpELA/

 

To know more about Best Buddies Philippines and how you can help further its mission, like, follow and check out the following:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BestBuddiesPhilippines

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bestbuddies_ph/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCanfmI2hgq0-NyQGY_yIgwA

Twitter: https://twitter.com/bestbuddies_ph/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bestbuddiesphilippines

Website: https://bestbuddiesph.org/

TOYCON PH 2024 is set to transform the SMX Convention Center Manila into a vibrant playground for toy aficionados

TOYCON PH is a premier event destination in the Philippines, dedicated to the celebration and exploration of the dynamic world of toys and collectibles. Now on its 21st year, TOYCON PH focuses on the evolution of toys and the experience of creative play as it continues to captivate enthusiasts of all ages. This convention still serves as a hub where fans, collectors, creators, and industry professionals converge to celebrate the past, present, and future of playthings.  This is where Asia comes to PLAY!

Event Overview

Date: June 14-16, 2024  

Location: SMX CONVENTION CENTER MANILA

TOYCON PH 2024 is set to transform the SMX Convention Center Manila into a vibrant playground for toy aficionados. The convention will feature an extensive range of exhibits and activities, including exclusive toy product reveals, performances from international Pop idols, panel discussions with toy industry experts and celebrity collectors, toy designing workshops, interactive gaming and tabletop tournaments, cosplay, comics and a bustling marketplace for rare and exclusive collectibles.

Event Highlights

• Be a part of the exciting launch of two new toy brands from MNDSTYL and the creator of Funko Pop

• Catch the launch of an exciting new Quiccs release of TEQ 63 and Jollibee

• Take your pick of exciting toy exclusives from Solid Toys, RLux Custom, Armored Komodo, Devil Toys, Omo Collectibles and more than 50 other Designer toy artists  

• Enjoy new finds and releases from big toy brands like Hot Toys, Jada, Bandai, PopMart, Funko, Toy City, and so much more!

• Catch the celebration of GMA Network’s 74th anniversary with surprise GMA celebrity appearances!

• View the very first reveal of the 20-foot Voltes V Legacy display of Telesuccess Productions!

• Funko Funatics Philippines launching the Funko Exclusive Tee and the Freddy Funko exclusive for TOYCON MNDSTYL FANX 2024 at their booth "Freddy's Sari Sari Store!" 

• Enjoy performances from International Performers - Bugvel, Chicken Blow The Idol, Kuroguro, and Tenohira El, Voice Actress/Idol - Ai Negeshi, local idols, Pastel Mix and Day Night Explorers and many more surprise international guests!

• MNDSTYL FANX presents JPOP Singer-songwriter krage and KPOP boy group n.SSign for their 1st time live performance here in the Philippines!

• Special musical performance by P-POP Sensation G22, the Female Alphas, and beloved OPM band I Belong to the Zoo courtesy of CaliCo Toys.

• Be part of the Mana Underground Table-top Tournaments: Battlegrounds 
  
  

• Catch the special displays and special spotlight presentations from upcoming movies, "Alien vs Predator: Romulus," "A Quiet Place: Day One," "Deadpool and Wolverine," "Friendly Fire," Horizon: An American Saga," "Inside Out 2," and "Transformers One."

• Enjoy all the spectacle of costume play performances with TOYCON’s Cosplay KO Competition

• Meet and greet our talented Filipino anime voice actors at the Calico Booth featuring: Nica Rojo, Elle Genovata, Alain Alfred and Blair Arellano.

• Catch the awarding of the Pinoy Pop Culture Icon for 2024.  It will be awesome! 

• Be a part of more than 100 toy collector groups of the Philippine Toy Groups Association with their collections exhibited at the TOYCON Gallery

• Enjoy the Creators and Artisan Alley and Comic Zone with celebrity graphic artists, authors, crafts people and inventors! 

• Get your first lightsaber from Saber Source with a special collab with TOYCON, launching the exclusive and limited edition "Kawayan" light saber. 

One of the main attractions at TOYCON Evolution is the unveiling of new toy lines and limited-edition collectibles. Major toy manufacturers and independent creators alike will showcase their latest innovations, offering attendees the first look at the toys that will shape the market in the coming year. This includes everything from action figures and designer toys to high-tech gadgets and educational toys.

MNDSTYL FANX

This year, it’s all about the creators! Get up close and personal with many of them including renowned toy designers, popular influencers, and iconic figures from the world of toys and collectibles. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet their heroes, get autographs, and participate in Q&A sessions.

Panel Discussions

Industry experts, including toy designers, marketers, and trend analysts, will lead insightful panel discussions on various topics such as:

• The impact of technology on toy design

• Trends in the collectible markets

• Sustainable and eco-friendly toy production

• The role of nostalgia in modern toy collecting
  
  

Interactive Workshops

TOYCON Evolution offers a series of workshops designed to engage and educate attendees. These hands-on sessions will cover a wide range of interests, from DIY toy customization and 3D printing to the basics of starting a toy collection and preserving vintage toys.

Marketplace

The marketplace at TOYCON Evolution is a paradise for collectors. Vendors from around the world will offer a vast array of toys and collectibles, including rare finds, limited editions, and exclusive convention merchandise. This is the perfect place for attendees to discover unique items and complete their collections.

Community and Networking

Beyond the exhibits and panels, TOYCON Evolution fosters a sense of community among attendees. Networking events, meet-and-greets, and social mixers provide ample opportunities for fans and professionals to connect, share their passions, and build lasting relationships within the toy community.

We’re more than just a convention, we are a PLAYGROUND!

TOYCON Evolution is more than just a convention; it's a celebration of the creativity, innovation, and joy that toys bring to our lives. Whether you're a seasoned collector, a casual enthusiast, or someone looking to dive into the world of toys for the first time, TOYCON Evolution promises an unforgettable experience that honors the past, celebrates the present, and looks forward to the future of toys and collectibles.

Mark your calendars and get ready to embark on a journey through the ever-evolving world of toys at TOYCON x MNDSTYL FANX 2024!

Thanks to our sponsors, Jollibee, Great Toys Online, Talent High, Urdu, XURE, College of St. Benilde, Solid Toys, PUBG Mobile, Filbars, Devil Toys, CO The Collectible Store, CaliCo Toys, Bullyboys, Hubbyte, Grimalkin, JADA, RLux Customs, OMO Toys, Courtside, Toki, Funtastick, Clay Miniatures, Armored Komodo, The GMA Store, Imageworld, Tiktok Shop, Legendary Beast Studios, Oishi, Telesuccess, Paramount Pictures, Walt Disney Studios, Parallax/Saga Studios and Black Cap Pictures.

With special thanks to our event partners, Baguio Country Club, Mana Underground, Ambox National, Telesuccess Productions, United Neon, Devant, Imageworld, Quiccs, The Jakarta Toys and Comics Fair, IPMS, Exlink Events, Anime Alliance, the Philippine Toy Group Association and to our Official Residence Partner, SEDA Manila.

With Media Partners, Inquirer.net, POP!, Scout, Cebu Daily News, Esports INQ, and Be An Inquirer

Get your tickets now from SMTickets.com or buy them at the gates.  

Follow TOYCON PH

Instagram www.instagram.com/phtoycon

X Twitter www.twitter.com/phtoycon

Youtube www.youtube.com/toyconph

Threads www.threads.net/phtoycon

Tiktok www.tiktok.com/@toyconph

Facebook www.facebook.com/toyconph

Website www.toyconph.com 

Hashtags:

#TOYCON2024

#TOYCONEvolution

#21YearsofTOYCON 

#TOYCONPH

Netflix Announces July 26 Launch and Unveils Key Art for ‘Pulang Araw’

 

On Monday, June 10th, Netflix shared an announcement video and the key art of the highly-anticipated historical action-drama series Pulang Araw, set to premiere on the platform on July 26th. The series will stream on Netflix 72 hours ahead of its scheduled airing on free TV and boasts a stellar cast featuring Barbie Forteza, Sanya Lopez, David Licauco and Alden Richards, with Dennis Trillo.

Pulang Araw chronicles the lives of Eduardo (Richards), Teresita (Lopez), Adelina (Forteza), and Hiroshi (Licauco) during the Japanese occupation of the Philippines. Find out how the characters navigate an intricate web of loyalty, betrayals, sacrifices, and resilience amidst the backdrop of a war ravaging the country.

More updates about this title soon.

Manulife’s new Asia Care Survey 2024 drew on responses from 1,050 consumers in the PH

A healthy lifestyle and good physical well-being are the essential elements for positive financial and mental well-being among consumers in the Philippines as they plan for longer lifespans, and lengthier and more comfortable retirements, according to new research by Manulife. Yet financial confidence among Filipinos is low amid concerns about inflation, particularly rising healthcare costs.

Manulife’s new Asia Care Survey 2024 drew on responses from 1,050 consumers in the Philippines. It launched Manulife’s MyFuture Readiness Index, which measures how consumers view their current and future physical, mental, and financial well-being. On a scale of 1 to 100, the index shows their desired readiness level to be 91, which is above the regional average, but the expected level to be 79, suggesting a lack of confidence about the future.

According to the Filipinos surveyed, the top five challenges impacting confidence in their future well-being are: rising healthcare costs (82%), inflation/rising costs of living (81%), economic slowdown/recession (78%), increasing interest rates (78%) and health trending down (73%). 

To help save and prepare for their envisioned future, including for greater longevity, retirement and unexpected medical needs, the Filipinos surveyed highlighted having a passive income after retirement (43%), having sufficient savings for a rainy day (39%), financial freedom in retirement (32%) and having enough savings for healthcare needs (31%) as their main financial goals.

“The survey reveals a lot of anxiety around economic volatility, healthcare-related expenses and uncertainty, which dampens the optimism of many Filipinos in achieving high-quality well-being in the future,” said Rahul Hora, President and CEO, Manulife Philippines. “But there are ways to address these concerns so they are future-proofed. Significant of these is the value of financial advice and guidance that can help them assess and bring their goals closer to fruition, mitigate risks, and find the right products that provide stronger health and life protection, as well as investment and retirement solutions.” 

 

Healthcare costs perceived to be too expensive

In the survey, 82% cited rising healthcare costs as a top threat– a percentage that rises to 86% among 50 to 60-year-olds. Their concerns are understandable given that 44.7% of health expenses in the Philippines are out-of-pocket, in total reaching US$9 billion in 2022.[1] It is an amount that Manulife expects to reach US$13 billion by 2028 and account for 38% of their overall medical expenses. 

“We see in the Philippines a realization of longer life expectancy and people rightly want to enjoy good health for a longer time. Healthcare costs trump inflation as their main concern for the future, with women being in general more concerned than men,” said Hora. “To navigate this, there is a need for effective financial planning. It is fair to expect medical costs to rise faster than inflation given aging populations and increased pressure on healthcare services, but our survey suggests that perceptions on the extent of such rises are well above actuality.” 

The survey shows that over the past 12 months, the perception of the Filipinos surveyed on healthcare cost inflation was 32%, the highest in the region (average 23%) and around three times the actual rate^[2]. Most respondents (61%) are concerned about the rises in cost of prescriptions, while 59% of them are worried about hospitalization, and 45% about preventive healthcare. Curiously, elderly care (16%) is much lower.  

The potential illnesses that worry people in the Philippines the most are heart disease (46%), the leading cause of death in the country[3], diabetes (42%), stroke (34%) and cancer (31%).  With the broader concerns about their physical well-being and rising medical costs, 78% of the respondents agree that increasing insurance coverage and benefits for inflation is a crucial part of planning for my future financial well-being.  

The findings show a sizeable segment adopting a strategy of using less expensive healthcare (41%) services and medicines (53%), well above the regional average of 31% and 29% respectively. According to the survey, this would typically mean using government health services and generic drugs, rather than going private. Alongside that, about three quarters are exercising more or improving their diet.

Children no longer viewed as alternative to a pension

Across all the markets covered in Asia, 7 out of 10 of those surveyed said they feel health benefits and coverage from their employers are not enough. In the Philippines, it was a little higher at 76%. As things stand, 78% of the Filipinos surveyed feel a need to top up retirement and pension benefits they receive from their employers to boost their future financial well-being. In addition, 58% are looking to delay retirement because of their financial responsibility for their family.

Traditionally in Asia and elsewhere in the world, an alternative to insurance and a pension for old age would be having children. But that is not the case now in the Philippines where 58% of the Filipinos surveyed disagree that children are great investments because they provide support in old age. Only Japan had a higher rating at 70%. In the markets covered, half those surveyed said they do not plan to have kids. The average number of children wanted by Asians is 1.6. In the Philippines, the preferred number is 1.8.

“We encourage more Filipinos to consider ways to increase their health protection. At the same time, insurers have an important role in helping them do that, including changing perceptions on health costs and focusing on specific individual needs. There’s a need also for greater financial literacy,” said Hora. “Doing that will enable everyone to focus on ways to effectively address the challenges on health protection and long-term savings that exist.”

To help address the unique needs of Filipinos when it comes to their health, well-being and finances, Manulife Philippines offers a suite of innovative insurance and investment solutions that can help them financially prepare for the future, while ensuring life and health protection coverage in case of the unexpected. 

 

About the Manulife Asia Care Survey 2024 

In its fifth year running, the latest Manulife Asia Care Survey was conducted in January and February 2024 via online self-completed questionnaires in eight markets. A total of 8,400 individuals, evenly split between men and women, aged 25 to 60 years old were surveyed: mainland China (1,052), Hong Kong (1,052), Indonesia (1,063), Japan (1,000), Malaysia (1,038), Philippines (1,050), Singapore (1,038) and Vietnam (1,107).  Each of those surveyed

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[1] The Country’s Total Health Spending, Philippine Statistics Authority, August 20, 2023. Last Accessed June 6, 2024  

[2] 2024 Global Medical Trends Survey, November 2023. Last Accessed June 6, 2024

[3]2023 Causes of Death, Philippine Statistics Authority, February 2024. Last Accessed June 6, 2024